Ridley Scott wants Owen Cooper for Treasure Island
Ridley Scott is Hunting for Treasure: The Next Adventure Takes Cast from Teen Drama Stars
Director Ridley Scott is back in the saddle, and this time, he is trading the post-apocalyptic landscapes of his recent work for the salty seas and buried riches of classic adventure. Scott has confirmed that his next cinematic venture will be a lavish adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s timeless classic, Treasure Island, and the search for the perfect cast has already begun.
The casting process has thrown some fascinating juxtapositions into the mix. For the role of the charismatic pirate Long John Silver, the casting news is already sizzling: Hugh Jackman is officially attached to the project. Jackman brings an undeniable magnetism, perfectly suited for the rogue figure who leads the mutiny in the search for buried fortune.
But the real buzz comes from the casting of the young hero, Jim Hawkins. Director Scott has set his sights on Owen Cooper, the breakout star from the acclaimed Netflix series Adolescence. Cooper, known for bringing intense, contemporary emotional depth to the role of Jamie Miller, is now being considered for the role of the young adventurer, Jim Hawkins, placing him at the center of an epic historical adventure.
This pairing—a young actor celebrated for contemporary drama taking on the mantle of a classic literary hero—offers a unique opportunity. It allows Cooper to step outside the realm of intense teen drama and dive into the world of high-seas adventure, channeling a different kind of intensity while still delivering a compelling performance.
Adding to the excitement, Scott has also mentioned hopes of bringing in other familiar faces. Beyond Jackman, the director has expressed interest in casting Hugh Grant, suggesting a potential blend of literary, youthful, and veteran talent for the sprawling adventure.
The production details are shaping up quickly. Scott has set a firm start date for Treasure Island, aiming for filming to commence on November 1st. This timing places the project directly into production shortly after the release of Scott’s upcoming post-apocalyptic thriller, The Dog Stars, ensuring a swift transition into the cinematic world.
With the screenplay penned by Jack Thorne, who brings a wealth of experience as an executive producer, the project promises a grand visual experience built on classic narrative structure. It is a return to the kind of large-scale historical adventure that defines Scott’s career, and now, it is ready to sail.
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